A database is an organized system for storing and retrieving information. Websites use databases for articles, accounts, products, orders, settings, and other changing information.

Common Terms

• Table: A structure for records.
• Row: An individual record.
• Column: A field in a record.
• Query: A request to retrieve or modify data.
• Database user: An account with defined permissions.

Protect Access

Use a dedicated database account with only the permissions the application needs. Keep credentials out of publicly accessible files.

Backups

A database-driven website normally needs both its files and database backed up. Keep backups separate from the live server and periodically test restoration.